Cael Sanderson’s recruiting focus has been on the Class of 2018, yet the Penn State wrestling coach found the time — and room on the Nittany Lions’ well-stocked roster — to bring in a star from Pennsylvania’s current graduating class.

Hempfield’s Jarod Verkleeren declared on Twitter Sunday night that he would continue his academic and athletic career with a Nittany Lion team that has won six of the past seven NCAA Championships.

Verkleeren, who won 135 of 154 matches at Belle Vernon and Hempfield, including a Class AAA title and a spot on the Pa. team in the Wrestling Classic, projects in the 149-pound class.

He dominated the Class AAA 145-pound division in March at Hershey this past season. He is the No. 1-ranked 145-pounder in FloWrestling’s national rankings.

He won a Junior Cadet World Championship in 2015 at 138.75 pounds.

Verkleeren previously signed with Iowa State but the Cyclones granted a release during their recent coaching change.